Recent General Posts

Document Restoration Process

4/27/2023 (Permalink)

Damaged Document SERVPRO can restore your documents!

In many instances of water/fire damage or even bacterial contamination, personal belongings and documents can get ruined. Some of our most valuable possessions can be books and pictures. The last thing we’d want is for them to be destroyed. Thankfully SERVPRO has highly trained specialists in document restoration. So there is still hope for your priceless pictures, books and documents!

Document Drying and Restoration Techniques

SERVPRO uses a few different techniques to restore/dry documents.

Vacuum Freeze: This method takes a damaged document and completely freezes it. It is then placed under a vacuum in order to remove water from the documents. This allows the water to go directly from ice to vapor removing any liquid that there might be.

Gamma Irradiation: This process will sterilize documents that were exposed and/or contaminated by bacteria, viruses, or chemicals.

Digitization Services: During this process SERVPRO will help digitize your documents. This helps you save storage space and will prevent them from being damaged or lost. This is usually best for personal or government documents that you cannot lose or ruin.

No matter which technique you prefer, you can be rest assured that SERVPRO has a way to restore your invaluable documents.

What Do Moisture Meters Do?

4/17/2023 (Permalink)

Moisture Meter Moisture meters detect how much water may be on a surface.

A moisture meter is a tool used by SERVPRO and many other restoration companies to detect moisture in certain materials. 

Most moisture meters are used on wood such as flooring or furniture. However, there are some calibrated to be used on concrete. Typically the scale ranges from 5-40% moisture content when testing on wood and 0-100 when tested on non-wood materials such as concrete. Some meters have an additional scale ranging from 0.2-50% MC used for reading gypsum which typically makes up plaster, blackboard, or drywall. 

There are also usually color indicators that make it a lot easier to detect moisture. Green (dry), yellow (moderate), and red (saturated) coincide with the other scales on the meter to help identify how much moisture is found. 

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights is Here to Help! SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights is Here to Help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need 

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. 

Specialized Training 

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include: 

  • Kitchen/Food Areas 
  • Bathrooms 
  • Schools/Classrooms 
  • Offices 
  • Retail Spaces 
  • Water Fountains 
  • Shelving/Racks 
  • Sales Counters 
  • Carpets and Rugs 
  • Stair Handrails 
  • Elevator Cars 
  • Playground Equipment 
  • Fitness Equipment 

Specialized Products 

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning 

If your business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today at SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights/Rowland Heights. We are here to help around the clock to provide proactive cleaning services. (626) 964-7700

Have a Safe Holiday Season

12/25/2017 (Permalink)

Being safe during the Holiday season especially in Christmas is important and the NSC safety tips that will help avoid any dangers. 

Even Angel Hair can Hurt

  • "Angel hair" made from spun glass, can irritate your eyes and skin; always wear gloves or substitute non-flammable cotton
  • Spraying artificial snow can irritate your lungs if inhaled; follow directions carefully
  • Decorate the tree with your kids in mind; move ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks toward the top
  • Always use the proper step ladder; don't stand on chairs or other furniture
  • Lights are among the best parts of holiday decorating; make sure there are no exposed or frayed wires, loose connections or broken sockets

Candles and Fireplaces

  • Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep in a room with a lit candle
  • Keep candles out of reach of children
  • Make sure candles are on stable surfaces
  • Don't burn candles near trees, curtains or any other flammable items
  • Don't burn trees, wreaths or wrapping paper in the fireplace
  • Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year

Turkey Fryers

NSC discourages the use of turkey fryers at home and urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments or consider a new oil-less turkey fryer. But for those don't need that advice, please follow these precautions:

  • Set up the fryer more than 10 feet from the house and keep children away
  • Find flat ground; the oil must be even and steady to ensure safety
  • Use a thawed and dry turkey; any water will cause the oil to bubble furiously and spill over
  • Fryer lid and handle can become very hot and cause burns
  • Have a fire extinguisher ready at all times

Don't Give the Gift of Food Poisoning

The U.S department of Health and Human Services provides some Holiday food Safety tips. Here are a few:

  • Do not rinse raw meat and poultry before cooking
  • Use a food thermometer to make sure meat is cooked to a safe temperature
  • Refrigerate food within two hours
  • Thanksgiving leftovers are safe for four days in the refrigerator
  • Bring sauces, soups and gravies to a rolling boil when reheating
  • When storing turkey, cut the leftovers in small pieces so they will chill quickly
  • Wash your hands frequently when handling food

The 12 ways to Health-CDC

12/24/2017 (Permalink)

The CDC created this wonderful 12 days to Health Holiday song to keep people aware and safe during the holidays with a fun twist. This would be a great asset to show the family during the holidays.

   1. The first way to health, said the CDC to me 

Wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   2. The second way to health, said the CDC to me

Bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   3. The third way to health, said the CDC to me

Manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   4. The fourth way to health, said the CDC to me

Don't drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   5. The fifth way to health, said the CDC to me

Be smoke-free, don't drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and health.

   6. The sixth way to health, said the CDC to me

Fasten belts while driving, be smoke-free, don't drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   7. The seventh way to health, said the CDC to me

Get exams and screenings, fasten belts while driving, Be smoke-free, don't drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy. 

   8. The eighth way to health, said the CDC to me

Get your vaccinations, get exams and screenings, fasten belts while driving, Be smoke-free, don’t drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   9. The ninth way to health, said the CDC to me

Monitor the children, get your vaccinations, get exams and screenings, fasten belts while driving, Be smoke-free, don’t drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   10. The tenth way to health, said the CDC to me

Practice fire safety, monitor the children, get your vaccinations, get exams and screenings, fasten belts while driving, Be smoke-free, don’t drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   11. The eleventh way to health, said the CDC to me

Prepare dinner safely, practice fire safety, monitor the children, get your vaccinations, get exams and screenings, fasten belts while driving, Be smoke-free, don’t drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

   12. The twelfth way to health, said the CDC to me

Eat well and get moving, prepare dinner safely, practice fire safety, monitor the children, get your vaccinations, get exams and screenings, fasten belts while driving, Be smoke-free, don’t drink and drive, manage stress, bundle up for warmth, and wash hands to be safe and healthy.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCebthk9b2A

When should you contact SERVPRO to be onsite?

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some instances that you should have SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights onsite:

For Water Damages

  • If standing water needs to be extracted.
  • If contents or structure are wet and require drying and/or dehumidification.
  • If mold or mildew have started to form requiring drying, cleaning and/or treatment with antimicrobial.
  • If sewage has backed up and requires removal, cleaning, deodorization and sanitation of the damaged area. 
  • In all cases, influx of water must be stopped SERVPRO does no plumbing work.

For Fire Losses

  • If smoke or soot cleanup of structure is required (contents cleaning will likely be homeowner responsibility). 
  • If deodorization required.
  • If an emergency board-up for security purposes is required and the glass repair company for the building does not do emergency board-ups. 

For Wind Damages

  • If inside cleanup of glass or debris is required (SERVPRO doesn't replace glass).
  • If it results in water damage (see above water loss requirement).
  • If emergency board-up for security or to prevent further damage is required.

For Miscellaneous

  • If vandalism act requires cleaning, drying or inside debris removal. 
  • If mold & mildew treatment or sanitizing is required.
  • If deodorization is needed for skunk, chemical, or other odor sources.

Reassure yourself that everything will be okay once SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights team is on its way!

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Water Damage

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

1. What causes water damage?



  1. Water damage can occur after natural disasters, such as thunderstorms or hurricanes that cause flooding, from pipe bursts, appliance malfunctions, roof leaks, foundation leaks, septic tank overflows, poor drainage, and more. Flash flooding, pipe bursts, and sewage backups are especially dangerous as they can produce several inches of water in less than a day.


2. Why is water damage dangerous?



  1. Floodwater that comes from outside and from sewage backups contains dangerous contaminants like viruses and bacteria. If the water isn’t drained within 24-48 hours, structural damage and mold growth can ensue. Even water leaks that infiltrate your home slowly can cause damage to the building and lead to mold growth. Mold left unchecked will spread quickly through the home.


3. What should I do after a flood, or sewage or water leak?



  1. Firstly, contact a water damage restoration company as soon as possible. Don’t wait as water can cause mold and irremediable damage to the wood, walls, and carpet in your home. Afterwards, contact your insurance company to start the claim process. If safe, shut off the utilities in your home to avoid further damage. Don’t enter your home if it has suffered structural damage. Don’t walk through floodwater if electricity hasn’t been turned off and to avoid contaminants.


4. How do certified technicians typically handle water damage?


The first thing professionals do is remove damaged materials that will either be restored or discarded. Materials include baseboards, insulation, furniture, carpeting, upholstery, carpet padding, fragile woods, drywall, and more. After the damaged items are removed, the technicians begin drying out the water and disinfecting the areas. Specialized tools like air movers and dehumidifiers are typically involved in the drying process. Professionals will also handle mold damage in the restoration process. Mold-infected surfaces will be disinfected and restored as quickly as possible to prevent it from spreading.


5. Will my homeowners insurance cover water damage?


Homeowners insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental (such as water heater ruptures or pipe bursts). However, flood damage, no matter the source of the water, is NOT covered by standard homeowners policies. Flooding can occur from storms, sewer backup, and overflowing rivers, ponds, lakes, and oceans. However, you can purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Note that water damage that results from lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowners insurance policy.


The best way to avoid water damage in your home is to take steps to prevent itFor flood water damage repair and mold remediation service, please contact us, your local SERVPRO office.  We are just a call away and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  A call to us and we can make it "Like it never even happened." 

Water, Fire, or Mold Damage is No Friend

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

  1. A Water Damage Restoration Service is the professional that usually no one wants to call, but it is important not to delay when it is needed. Many homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building or residence, the response should be the same. Have SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights onsite as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.
  2. If there is a contaminated water source that has entered the home, Do not try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage back-flows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service like SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights, not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, we have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.
  3. The Restoration Technicians have lots of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems. high volume Air Movers, Dehumidifiers, Heat injectors, Moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the residence or building, disposing of comprised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live in, and a business is safe to work in; any other cleaning method would be dangerous and hazardous. 

Do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights (626) 964-7700 in a Water, Fire, or Mold Damage emergency.

We are a IICRC Certified Firm

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Walnut has been a IICRC 'Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification' certified firm since 2009. The IICRC set the Gold standard for the cleaning and remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. Below is from the official IICRC website http://www.IICRC.org.

  • "IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the cleantrust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC- certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise."
  • IICRC Certified firms must:
  1. Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity. 
  2. Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  3. Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  4. Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  5. Maintain a written complaint policy and agreed to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

"The IICRC actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet, and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC- certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers maintenance brochures and warranties." 

SERVPRO of Walnut is honored to count it among the select organizations to receive this certification. We will continue to offer the same standard of excellence that you have come to expect, but now we have the IICRC stamp of approval to back that up.

Is Your Water Heater about to Fail?

11/16/2016 (Permalink)

It is common for some to be unaware if there water heater is about to fail. Here are four things you should check. 

1. How old is your Water Heater?

-Water heaters typically have a lifetime of about 8-10 years. Locate the serial number to determine how old yours is. The serial number will have a date code such as "F051052638". The letter F would be for the month and since F is the sixth letter in the alphabet it would represent June. The first two digits of the serial number are 05, which represents 2005. So, in this case it was made in June 2005.Each manufacturing has similar date code.

2. Is there Rusty Water?

-If you notice the hot water is coming out brown, it may be a sign that the Water Heater is beginning to rust out.\

3. Is there a Rumbling and Noise?

-When a Water Heater ages, sediment will build up on the bottom of the tank. As the sediment is Heated and reheated, it eventually will harden. When this happens, you can often hear rumbling or banging sounds coming from the water as it heats up. This is a sign that the water heater is at the end of it's useful life.

4. Is there Water around the Water Heater?

-If you notice moisture around your water heater, you may have a small leak or a fracture in the tank. As the metal heats, it expands and if there are sight fractures, water may leak from the tank. When this happens it is best to get it repaired before more damage occurs.

Our Process

9/30/2016 (Permalink)

The Emergency Water Damage Process.

  • One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss. a SERVPRO franchise professional will contact you to arrange for service. you'll know help is on its way.
  • Four Hour: Within four hours of the loss notification, a SERVPRO franchise professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. the key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to you damage. 
  • Detailed Explanation: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO franchise professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. 
  • Pretesting: A SERVPRO franchise professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
  • Eight Hours: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.
  • Cleaning and Restoration: SERVPRO franchise professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. they will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.
  • Final Walk Through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to ensure your satisfaction.

Our Equipment

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

Detection Equipment:

-Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verify that an environment has been dried.

  • Moisture sensors- are used to detect moisture in carpets Baseboards and walls.
  • Moisture Meters- are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. the moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable the SERVPRO franchise professional to monitor the drying process.
  • Thermohygrometers- measure both temperature and relative humidity. Capturing these two readings, a SERVPRO franchise professional using a Psychometric chart can calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

Extraction Equipment:

-The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. this is why it is critical to respond quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.

  • Extractors- Are used in cleaning carpets and upholstery and in removing water from floors following a water damage. Extractors can either be truck-mounted or portable. allowing fro greater access inside structures. 

history of trust and professionalism

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

National Headquaters

    Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO industries inc. franchise system is a national leader in fire, water, mold and other specialty clean up and restoration services. SERVPRO's professional network of more than 1,600 franchises has responded to property damage emergencies ranging from multi-million dollar disasters such as the pentagon, to those suffered by individual businesses and homes. Providing coverage nationally. SERVPRO franchise professionals have established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients nationwide. 

    Following tremendous growth in the late 1990's, Entrepreneurs magazine ranked SERVPRO the #1 Franchiser in the restoration industry from 2004 through 2012. in April 2005, SERVPRO moved to a new 140,000 square foot facility on Gallatin, TN> The State of the art Building houses a newly designed training facility and national call center. 

Asbestos

8/23/2016 (Permalink)

Do you have asbestos? if your home has been built before 1980 then its best to get it tested.

Asbestos exposure may be a hazard to you and your families health, you can come in contact with it;

  • By simply breathing it in or swallowing asbestos fibers
  • Or if your occupation is construction work, as well as having renovations done in your home. 
  • It can be located in your drywall, old floor tiles, ceilings, and insulation.

Risks for being exposed to asbestos;

  • breathing becomes more difficult, because of the exposure and the accumulation inside the lungs
  • Along with the extended exposure it can cause mesothelioma

if you are a home owner it is best to get your home tested to insure your health, for more information go to: https://www.asbestos.com/exposure/ 

We've Moved!

1/26/2015 (Permalink)

New location!

SERVPRO of Walnut & Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights has a new location!

Our new location is bigger and more accessible, allowing for more equipment and storage space. We've also added a phenomenal conference room where we will host Continued Educations classes and lunches for our clients. 

Look out for our Grand Re-Opening TBD!

250 Paseo Tesoro. Suite B

Walnut, CA 91789

SERVPRO now utilizes iPads (DryBook)

4/23/2014 (Permalink)

DryBook makes job documentation more efficient for COIs and customers!

DryBook is a SERVPRO application that provides Crew Chiefs and Production Managers the ability to capture all required job-related information and documentation in the field with the use of an iPad.

This allows all documentation to be sent to the insurance company, property manager or owner more rapidly and more efficiently. 

With DryBook, the use of paper has disappeared. Customers are easily able to sign authorization forms by the use of their finger directly on the iPad, then copies can be emailed to them right on the spot!

Call SERVPRO of Walnut and Hacienda Heights for all your cleanup and restoration needs!

SERVPRO Walnut 

SERVPRO Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights

(909) 598-8400

www.servprowalnut.com

www.servprohaciendaheights.com

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Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry C.E. Course

1/8/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Walnut / Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights is holding a free Continued Education Course for Insurance Agents for Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry (Course #126438). Earn 2 C.E. Credits for your license and enjoy lunch on us!

Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2013

Time: 11am-1pm

Location: Courtyard Marriott Hacienda Heights- 1905 S. Azusa Ave, Hacienda Heights, CA 91745

To RSVP call (626) 833-0774

Wishing you all a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

12/23/2013 (Permalink)

Merry Christmas from your friends at SERVPRO of Walnut / Hacienda Heights & Rowland Heights!

Please keep these Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips in mind during this holiday season!


1. Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

2. Place your tree it at least three feet away from any heat source including your fire place, heaters and candles (or anything that can dry out the tree and make it more flammable). 

3. Always keep your tree stand filled with water.

4. When decorating your tree replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.

5. Make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are operating properly.

6. Try not to leave your tree up for more than two weeks.

7. Never leave Christmas tree lights on if the tree is unattended. Unplug them when you go to bed or leave the home. 

8. When purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.

Have a safe and joyful holiday season!!